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Autism 101: Communication with your child’s teacher is key
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Here we are, just about on half of the way through the school year. How are things going?
When you have a child with an autism spectrum disorder, it is almost impossible to know for sure- unless you are communicating meaningfully with your child’s teacher.
Here are 5 tips that will keep parents, teachers and students on the same page.
1) Parent/Teacher communication should be constant and detailed, not just “Had a great day” or “Hit a student.” Find out what made your child have a great day or what made it difficult. Troubleshoot with your child teacher in a POSITIVE way. Be a team.
2) Communication books are a great tool, but there is no substitute for an occasional visit to your child’s school. (Bring a few flowers from your garden, if possible!) Keep the visit short but the more appreciation and encouragement you show your child’s teacher, the better the outcome for all.
3) When making suggestions for improvements to your child’s program, be positive and offer your help in making improvements possible. Julie, the mother of a 14 year old son with Asperger syndrome, wanted her son to take part in a chorus program, but he needed and aide, and there wasn’t one available that period. Julie hired a mentor from her local college to accompany her son to class a few days a week and she helped the other days. Just showing the teacher and the school that she was interested in being part of a team improved her chances for getting the improvements she wanted.
4) Communication with teachers helps parents to be consistent with what their child needs to keep him moving forward. Sarah’s teacher was having the hardest time figuring out a way to curb her impulsive (running and hitting students) behavior. She learned that Sarah really enjoyed organizing art supplies, and used that chore as a reward for good behavior. It worked so well that Sarah’s mother started doing the same at home. It worked! It ended up being a great year for Sarah.
5) Teachers want parents to communicate with them. Let the teacher know you are available for questions and ask questions of your own. Keep the rules at home the same as they are at school (especially those having to do with behavior).Most of all, remember that your teacher has a tough job. Try not to point fingers when you are not happy with something in your child’s program. Be positive. Offer help.
For more information, go to http://www.autism-pdd.net/autism-tips.html
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